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Wolfberry, the berry of the
Lycium chinensis
plant, have a long history of use in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese herbal medicine is part of an ancient and complex medical system that analyzes the effects of treatments in terms of their effects on the "energy" of various organs. Within this system, lycium berry has the following effects: nourishing liver and kidneys, moistening the lungs and supplementing the yin. (For more information on these pre-scientific medical concepts, see the full
Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine
article.) Typical uses based on these actions include life extension and treatment of dry skin, dizziness, diminished sexual desire, low back pain and chronic dry cough.

The Tibetan Goji berry is closely related to Chinese lycium.

What Is Wolfberry Used for Today?

Wolfberry is a nutritious food, containing relatively high levels of numerous vitamins and minerals. However, other proposed uses of wolfberry have no meaningful supporting evidence.

For example, while wolfberry is widely marketed as a life extension aid, there is no scientific evidence that it offers this benefit. In fact, even within the framework of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, the herb's action is far more complex and it would not be expected to prolong life
per se
. Much the same can said regarding the proposed uses of wolfberry to enhance
male
or
female
sexual function.

Dosage

Wolfberry tincture is typically taken in a dose of 3-4 tablespoons daily. For standardized extracts or other forms of the herb, follow label instructions.

Safety Issues

As a widely used food, wolfberry is thought to be relatively safe. However, it has not undergone comprehensive safety testing. Maximum safe doses in pregnant or nursing women, young children, or people with severe liver or kidney disease have not been established.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.